Do you have bird nests in the garden? 5 tips to protect them from cats and other predators

Sparrows, blackbirds, robins: there are numerous species of birds that love to nest in our gardens, especially if our gardens are rich in trees, shrubs, bushes and flowers of various kinds. These birds are often attracted by the tasty seeds and fruits, but also by the presence of shelters such as birdhouses, which should be placed in strategic points. It is better to favor shady, sheltered and quiet spaces of the garden, because the birds are easily frightened and will not approach if there is too much movement around. For example, you can place them on the highest branches of trees or under the awnings.

Also consider the home's environment: while seeming risk-free for these delightful creatures, actually some hide some dangers for birds, especially if you have cats, which could hunt and kill them. To prevent this from happening, just put a few simple things in place, which will help protect the birds' nests.

Place birdhouses on the highest branches of the trees

By placing a birdhouse on the highest branches, cats will not have the birds within "paw's" reach and seeing them high up, they will be less tempted to hunt them. You can also remove the branches positioned immediately beneath the nest to prevent cats from clinging to it and reaching the nest more easily.

Place tubs of water near the nest

Cats, as we know, do not like water very much, so you can place tubs of water near the nest or under the tree on which it hangs, in order to discourage felines from approaching. Among other things, these water features lend themselves to housing delightful aquatic plants, giving the garden a magical touch.

Place plants that smell unpleasant to cats near the nest

Onion, citrus, pepper, and chilli have a smell that cats don't like. You can use them to keep them away from bird nests simply by placing a few plants nearby. Or by sprinkling a little pepper near the nest or at the base of the tree.

If there are bushes in your garden, do not prune them

Cats often hide in bushes to catch little birds by surprise by ambushing them. If you have several bushes in your garden, avoid pruning them because the rustle of the foilage produced by cats as they creep up warns the birds of danger in advance, allowing them to fly away before it is too late.

Place wire mesh near / around the nest

Cats, like many other animals, hate walking on wire mesh. You can place a small piece near the birdhouse (for example, under the tree on which it hangs), to discourage cats.

You just need to test out these various tips and focus on the ones that seem most effective and suitable for your garden.